phd programs for genetics

Human Genetics and Genomics, PhD

School of medicine, ph.d. program.

The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics Training Program provides a training in all aspects of human genetics and genomics relevant to human biology, health and disease. 

Advances in human genetics and genomics continue at an astounding rate and increasingly they are being integrated into medical practice. The Human Genetics Program aims to educate highly motivated and capable students with the knowledge and experimental tools that will enable them to answer important questions at the interface between genetics and medicine. Ultimately, our trainees will be the leaders in delivering the promise of genetics to human health.

The overall objective of the Human Genetics program is to provide our students with a strong foundation in basic science by exposure to a rigorous graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and biostatistics as well as a core of medically-related courses selected to provide knowledge of human biology in health and disease. 

This program is also offered as training for medical students in the combined M.D./Ph.D. program.  Students apply to the combined program at the time of application to the M.D. program. (See section entitled Medical Scientist Training Program).

Research Facilities

Research laboratories are well equipped to carry out sophisticated research in all areas of genetics. The proximity to renown clinical facilities of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, including the Department of Genetic Medicine, and Oncology Center provides faculty and students with access to a wealth of material for study. Computer and library facilities are excellent. Laboratories involved in the Human Genetics Program span Johns Hopkins University; consequently supporting facilities are extensive.

Financial Aid

The program is supported by a training grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. These fellowships, which are restricted to United States citizens and permanent United States residents, cover tuition, health care insurance and a stipend during year one.  Once a student has joined a thesis lab, all financial responsibilities belong to the mentor.   Students are encouraged, however, to apply for fellowships from outside sources (e.g., the National Science Foundation, Fulbright Scholars Program, Howard Hughes Medical Institute) before entering the program.

Applicants for admission should show a strong academic foundation with coursework in biology, chemistry and quantitative analysis.   Applicants are encouraged to have exposure to lab research or to data science.  A bachelor's degree from a qualified college or university will be required for matriculation.  GREs are no longer required.

The Human Genetics site has up-to-date information on “ How to Apply .” For questions not addressed on these pages, please access the contact imformation listed on the program page: Human Genetics and Genomics Training Program | Johns Hopkins Department of Genetic Medicine (hopkinsmedicine.org) .

Program Requirements

The program includes the following required core courses: Advanced Topics in Human Genetics, Evolving Concept of the Gene, Molecular Biology and Genomics, Cell Structure and Dynamics, Computational Bootcamp,  Pathways and Regulation, Genomic Technologies, Rigor and Reproducibility in Research, and Systems, Genes and Mechanisms of Disease. Numerous elective courses are available and are listed under sponsoring departments.

Our trainees must take a minimum of four electives, one of which must provide computational/statistical training.

The HG program requires the “OPTIONS” Career Curriculum offered by the Professional Development and Career Office.  OPTIONS is designed to provide trainees with the skills for career building and the opportunity for career exploration as well as professional development training

Human Genetics trainees also take a two-week course in July at the Jackson Labs in Bar Harbor, Maine entitled "Human and Mammalian Genetics and Genomics: The McKusick Short Course" which covers the waterfront from basic principles to the latest developments in mammalian genetics. The faculty numbers about 50 and consists roughly in thirds of JAX faculty, Hopkins faculty and “guest” faculty comprising outstanding mammalian geneticists from other US universities and around the world.

The courses offered by the faculty of the program are listed below. All courses are open to graduate students from any university program as well as selected undergraduates with permission of the course director.

Trainees must complete three research rotations before deciding on their thesis lab.  They must also participate in the Responsible Conduct of Research sessions offered by the Biomedical Program; starting at year 3, students must attend at least two Research Integrity Colloquium lectures per year. 

Our trainees participate in weekly journal clubs, department seminars, monthly Science & Pizza presentations as well as workshops given twice a year on diversity, identity and culture.

At the end of the second year, trainees take their Doctoral Board Oral Examination.  Annual thesis committee meetings must be held following successful completion of this exam.

Average time for completion is 5.3 years.

Graduates from the Human Genetics program pursue careers in academia, medicine, industry, teaching, government, law, as well the private sector.  Our trainees are encouraged to explore the full spectrum of professional venues in which their training my provide a strong foundation. Driven by curiosity and a desire for excellence, our trainees stand out as leaders in the chosen arenas of professional life. They are supported in the development of their career plans by a program faculty and administration who are dedicated to their success, and by a myriad of support networks across the Johns Hopkins University, many of which are provided by the Professional Development Career Office of the School of Medicine.

Ph.D. in Genetics and Genomics

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 100
• Students: 64
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: November 30

Website:  http://upg.duke.edu

Program Description

The program provides a unified curriculum of study in genetics and genomics leading to the Ph.D. Areas of specialization include population and evolutionary genetics, microbial and viral genetics, human and mammalian genetics, developmental genetics, epigenomics, and plant genetics. This is an interdisciplinary program with faculty drawn from several departments (Biochemistry, Biology, Cell Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Immunology, Neurobiology, Pathology and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology) as well as from the Institute of Molecular Physiology.

• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline:  November 30

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Department-Specific Application Requirements (submitted through online application)

Writing Sample None required

Additional Components Optional Video Essay: How would a Duke PhD training experience help you achieve your academic and professional goals? Max video length 2 minutes; record externally and provide URL in application.

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

Begin PhD Study in Genetics

Students enter the PhD program through the Indiana BioMedical Gateway (IBMG) Program for PhD Study , which provides a shared first-year experience for all IU School of Medicine biomedical science PhD students. Students have the freedom to explore research areas through three rotations in laboratories across programs and choose entry into any of the ten PhD programs at the conclusion of the first academic year. The open enrollment system enhances the community of graduate students by offering a shared collaborative culture; a vital component of today’s inter-disciplinary nature of biomedical science research.

Students in the Genetics PhD program have the opportunity to participate in medical genetics clinics to facilitate an understanding of the bench to bedside approach to medical science.

Advisory Committee

Each PhD student who declares Medical and Molecular Genetics as their departmental choice will have chosen a major advisor (and advisory committee) by the end of their first year in open admission (by July). The student’s research committee is formed after admission to candidacy to supervise the progress of the student’s research toward the dissertation, evaluate the thesis, and administer the doctoral defense.

Program Requirements

The requirements for graduation from this program include completion of coursework, successful performance on the department qualifying examination, successful defense of a research proposal, completion of an original research project, and defense of the thesis. Helpful degree progression information.

• Coursework Graduates from the program are knowledgeable in the spectrum of medical genetics and take courses in molecular and biochemical genetics, cytogenetics, clinical genetics, and population genetics. All PhD students in Medical and Molecular Genetics are required to take a minimum of 30 hours of course work (of that, six hours are G718 rotations), and the remaining hours are research and seminar credits, for a total of 90 credit hours. A student must maintain an average 3.0 GPA for all coursework; courses with less than a B- do not count toward degree requirements.
• Examination The Qualifying Examination consists of two parts: Part I, Written Comprehensive Exam and Part II, Written Research Proposal and Defense of Proposal.  All parts of the qualifying examination must be passed before candidacy status is awarded, preferably by the end of the third year of graduate school.
• Dissertation A dissertation on a research project in the area of Human/ Medical and Molecular Genetics is required.
• Minor All Medical and Molecular Genetics PhD students are required to complete at least 12 coursework hours in a chosen PhD minor. Medical and Molecular Genetics PhD students who chose the Life Sciences minor using the core open admission curriculum may not count G716 Molecular Biology and Genetics toward the 12 hours of required MMGE coursework. These students need to take an additional three credits to replace G716 used in the Life Sciences minor.

Financial Aid

Vacation/Time-Off

Required Forms

Credit Transfer

• Interesting for you
• My settings

Genetics in United States

66  Genetics PhDs in United States

Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics The Graduate Program in Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics at the University of California, Riverside is a... University of California, Riverside Riverside, California, United States

Cancer Biology The Cancer Biology program from The University of Arizona allows students to focus their training in... The University of Arizona Tucson, Arizona, United States

Study in United States

The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.

Is United States the right place for you?

Take the test and find out which country is your best fit.

Explore your Genetics degree

Genetics degrees teach students topics related to heredity, from passing on the genetic information of the parents to the offspring, to the study of genetic diseases and disorders. By learning advanced Organic Chemistry, Biology and Physics, including classes on cell biology, genomics, bioinformatics and genetic modelling, students go on to develop effective drugs, sustainable agriculture and learn to identify and treat genetic diseases, such as cancer.

Is Genetics the best for you?

Take the test and find out if Genetics is the right path for you.

Go to your profile page to get personalised recommendations!

Join the Stanford Genetics Ph.D. Program!

The Genetics Department 2021 cohort escape to Tahoe for  a weekend of skiing, snowshoeing and hanging out together.

Looking to apply in the future?

The Stanford Genetics department is always interested in training up-and-coming scientists from all backgrounds. Whether you are thinking about applying to the Ph.D. program in the future, currently in school, or taking some time after college before applying, there are some general tips for beginning your scientific training at every stage:

Gain research experience

Getting into a lab for hands-on experience is the best way to know whether you enjoy working as a research scientist. Previous research experience is one of the top things that admissions committees look for in Ph.D. applicants. As research is a core component of a Ph.D., a strong record helps to demonstrate that the applicant is committed to this type of work and ready for a research-intensive Ph.D. program.

If you are an undergraduate student looking for research experience, one option is to reach out to faculty and see if you can work in their lab for a semester. Many labs don't advertise openings, but would be happy to take on interested students! Some colleges even offer credits or payment for this work.

In the event that your college or university does not offer many research opportunities on campus, there are many summer programs available (such as the  Stanford Summer Research Program ), post-baccalaureate programs, and master’s programs in sciences. Other successful Ph.D. applicants gain this experience after college by working 1-3 years as a technician in a research laboratory.

Complete science coursework 

While there are no specific required classes, it is helpful to have a transcript that reflects your interest in science. Most successful Ph.D. applicants will have a strong record of science coursework (such as genetics, chemistry, physics, biology, computer science, statistics, etc). 

It is not necessary to have completed coursework in the specific field you are applying to (such as completing Genetics courses prior to applying to this department). However, completing field-specific courses can help to demonstrate a strong interest and commitment to that field, which is beneficial in the application process.

If you are unable to complete science coursework, a strong research record can compensate. Alternatively, many successful Ph.D. applicants have leveraged their non-traditional academic record by describing why it is relevant to their new field of interest, and giving examples of the unique perspectives their background will provide.

Get to know faculty

A lot of faculty enjoy engaging with students through the coursework they teach, in addition to serving as research mentors. Get to know your professors through attending office hours, participating in class discussions, or through research experiences in the laboratories. Many professors have a strong commitment to education and mentoring, and are more than happy to answer questions from students. They often provide invaluable personalized advice about careers in academia, Ph.D. programs that would be especially good fits, help navigating the application process, and more.

Stanford (and most other Ph.D. programs) requires three letters of recommendation, so getting to know faculty well helps them to write fantastic personal letters on your behalf.

Gain speaking and presentation experience

Sharing results is a critical component of science! Not only can presentations provide an opportunity for feedback from colleagues, they help you get more comfortable talking about your work with different audiences. Look for conferences, poster sessions, symposiums, and other forums to share your research.

People interested in a Ph.D. in the Genetics Department apply through the Stanford Biosciences program , which has more information and frequently asked questions. Below, we will highlight just a few components that are of particular interest to the Genetics Department.  

Application Deadline : 

• Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 11:59:59 pm (PST) .   Late applications will not be accepted.
• Consider applying for a Knight-Hennessey Scholarship . Deadline is October 11, 2023 at 1:00pm  (PST).
• We believe everyone should have the equal opportunity to apply to Stanford Genetics. There is a Graduate fee waiver program for financially eligible individuals. This is due 10 business days before the application deadline.

The Genetics Department recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.

The Genetics Department   welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. The review process is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, prior research experience, and admissions essays to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field and how they might enrich the learning community at Stanford

The key to selecting a successful graduate program is identifying the right research environment for you. To ensure the Stanford Genetics program is the appropriate Home Program within Stanford Biosciences for you, we recommend ensuring that your scientific interests align with those of the department and our faculty. Take the time to explore what ongoing projects are taking place across our department, and feel free to reach out to faculty or graduate students to ask additional questions.

If Genetics is your top choice of department, be sure to list it first on your application to the Bioscience program. While the application allows you to list  two Home Programs, each Home Program makes independent admissions decisions. Many Home Programs will look at the applicants that list them as first choice, and only go to the applicants who listed them second after those initial decisions.

While your application should generally reflect the experiences mentioned above (such as research experience and strong letters of recommendation), here are a few other aspects the Genetics admission committee looks for:

Statement of purpose

This is a great opportunity for us to get to know you better. Be sure to highlight any experiences or challenges you faced along your scientific journey. This is also an opportunity to address anything unique about your application.

What are the experiences and perspectives that you will bring to our community?

What are your research interests? Specifically, address the research you have conducted and how your interests are aligned with the Stanford Genetics department and/or the Genetics faculty.

Optional short essay: Describe an unsolved biological problem

This is a chance for us again to see what you are interested in and how you would approach tackling a scientific problem of your choice.

It does not need to be related to your own research experiences, but can be a good place to demonstrate how your research interests align with those of the department.

Be sure to submit all of your application materials on time. If anything is going to be late, reach out as soon as possible. This includes your three letters of recommendation, so be sure your recommenders know when and how to submit their letters on your behalf.

Interviewing

All applicants who are offered an interview will be welcomed to come to the Stanford campus for four days in early March. Flights, accommodations, and meals are all provided by Stanford. These recruits will spend time engaging in faculty and student talks, interviewing with faculty, getting to know current students (especially their student host) and other members of the recruitment class. There is also time devoted to walking around the medical and undergraduate campus, touring housing options, meals with faculty and students, and spending the final day in the broader Bay Area.

A few recommendations for recruits at the interview stage:

First and foremost, be yourself! We are very excited to get to meet you and want to make sure this is an environment and community in which you can thrive as a graduate student.

This is also your chance to interview us. Come with any questions you have about specific research projects, the research environment, program details, the broader Stanford Biosciences community, and/or other opportunities outside of research such as volunteering, teaching, outreach, etc.

• Be able to discuss the significance of your research, and engage with the faculty about their research.
• Demonstrate fluency with disciplinary jargon and ease in discussing technical details.

Highlight how your research interests align with the Genetics Department and faculty.  

While not required or expected, feel free to send a follow up email to any faculty members with whom you had an especially good conversation.

Third years gather at the beach during the annual department retreat in Monterey

Students having fun at a Stanford footbal game. GO CARDINALS!

Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Human genetics.

The Vanderbilt Human Genetics PhD program (HGEN) has served as a model of successful interdisciplinary biomedical research to graduate students since its inception. Genetics is the study of variation in and transmission of hereditary material from generation to generation and how this information is translated into biological function. Genetics utilizes multiple techniques to understand the variation, transmission and function of hereditary material from the molecular level to the population level. Because of the pervasive impact of genetic variation on biological function, genetics has become a unifying theme for much research in the biological and biomedical sciences and can serve as a focus for the study of virtually all biological processes and systems. Genetics plays an ever increasing role in elucidation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of human disease and birth defects, as well as in their prevention, diagnosis and therapy. In addition to the use of genetics to study biomedical questions posed by other fields, genetics encompasses an important set of questions as to how the information content of a set of relatively simple molecules can be translated into complex organisms, how variation at the molecular level can cause differences among individuals in terms of normal variation and disease processes, and how this variation within and among populations can be used to explain differences in disease prevalence.

• About the School
• Quick Facts
• Administration
• Basic Sciences
• A-Z Directory
• Contact Information
• Campus Maps & Parking

Masks Strongly Recommended but Not Required in Maryland, Starting Immediately

Due to the downward trend in respiratory viruses in Maryland, masking is no longer required but remains strongly recommended in Johns Hopkins Medicine clinical locations in Maryland. Read more .

• Vaccines  
• Masking Guidelines
• Visitor Guidelines  

Department of Genetic Medicine

Human genetics and genomics graduate program.

The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program (HGG program) provides students with a robust foundation in all aspects of human genetics and genomics. In particular, the consequences of variation in our genomes on cellular biology, biochemistry, metabolism, development, physiology and, ultimately, human phenotypes. Building on this foundation, our trainees explore the array of mechanisms by which genetic variation interacts with environmental variables to contribute to disease mechanisms and risk, explored through the lens of normal and disease states in human biology and organ systems. The program provides an alternative to the combined M.D./Ph.D. program for those who want to carry out human genetic studies but do not want the M.D. degree.

Our students become increasingly skilled and independent in adding to their knowledge and in identifying key questions and incisive approaches that can advance their fields. The ability to design incisive experiments that appropriately employ quantitative methods to analyze and interpret the data with rigor and integrity is central to their training.

The HGG program also strives to provide students with a diverse and inclusive environment and supports acquisition of fundamental skills for their chosen career path, including written and oral communication skills. Throughout their training, students are provided with opportunities to acquire the professional skills and experiences needed to guide selection of, and facilitate transition into, any number of relevant careers, including research in academia and industry, teaching, science-writing, policy, law, and consulting. 

Quick Links

Faculty preceptors, our students, the decision process.

The HGG program is distinct from other programs in the JHU School of Medicine in its emphasis on human genetic variation; in particular, the origins, population distribution, and consequences for gene regulatory networks and, hence, phenotypic effects of human genetic variation. In essence, how genetic variation interacts with environmental variables to contribute to human health and disease. HGG remains one of the most prominent PhD training programs in genetics nationwide, producing incisive and creative thought leaders, skilled in the use of emerging genetic tools to dissect problems in human biology/clinical medicine.

A curriculum equipped for the challenges in 21st century genetics as applied to human biology and medicine: The rapidly expanding appreciation of genetic variation in medicine and health has arisen in tandem with dramatic technological advances. Holding this in tension with foundational concepts in genetics has necessitated a significant evolution of our training paradigm. HGG provides a unique training experience. Our revised curriculum integrates training in genetics, molecular and cellular biology with training in human pathobiology, disease mechanisms, computational and genomic tools, to equip HGG trainees for the emerging role of genetics in health.

Built for data: Contemporary genetic research increasingly necessitates computational competence and utilization of large data sets. The diverse and highly integrated HGG preceptor community includes a uniquely trained cohort of computational geneticists with deep training in phenotype definition, clinical disease, machine learning and genetic variation preparing our students for current and future data-driven discoveries. Of recently matriculated students, 31% are engaged in computationally intensive research.

Unique exposure to the interface between patient care and research: We take advantage of our position in a prominent school of medicine to provide HGG students with several unique opportunities. Among these, many students attend the weekly DGM Clinical Case Conference , allowing students to place genetic research in a clinically relevant context. Our students have the opportunity to work alongside the clinical and genetic counseling teams in preparing reports for the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man ( OMIM ) . This provides writing, clinical and professional development opportunities for our trainees that are not available elsewhere. We offer an elective, Understanding genetic disease , where students each observe a patient/family in a clinic under medical geneticist/counselor supervision. In class, they summarize the clinical issues and further discuss the epidemiology, pathogenesis, molecular genetic bases, treatment options, potential clinical trials, and research needs of the condition.

A training environment that promotes student initiatives and inclusivity: The HGG program promotes and has adopted student-initiatives to enhance diversity and inclusivity. These include a HGG-initiated, JHUSOM-wide committee and seminar series to address issues impacting the role and visibility of individuals with physical and mental disabilities in science and medicine ( Equal Access in Science and Medicine ); a seminar and discussion forum within HGG that addresses issues of race and gender-based inequities in genetics ( Equity in Genetics ); and a forward-looking effort to foster relationships with historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) to enhance research experience and expand opportunity for careers in science amongst undergraduates populations that are underrepresented in science ( BUILD2ASCEND ).  We have partnered with Morgan State University (MSU), to establish a long-term commitment to the BUILD2ASCEND program at MSU. We have established two mini-symposia per year (Fall and spring) to be presented by HGG students describing their thesis research to engage interested MSU students. Our goal is to connect HGG students with teaching and mentorship experience and simultaneously provide MSU students with research and career development experience that have immediate and long-term consequences. Interested MSU students will be invited to participate in summer research internships at Johns Hopkins, alongside their peer HGG mentor. Within the HGG, this program is directed by Dr. Greg Newby . 

The Johns Hopkins Training Program in Human Genetics and Genomics (HGG) has grown steadily since its inception in 1980 in parallel with the spectacular growth of genetics and genomics and their application to medicine over the last three decades. Similarly, the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine (SOM) continues to make commitments to human genetics as evidenced by the establishment of the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine (IGM) in 1999, and the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine | Department of Genetic Medicine (DGM) in 2019; as well as the provision of state of the art research space in 2004, and the 2009 introduction of a new medical school curriculum known as The Genes to Society curriculum, which has genetics and genetic-thinking as an underlying principle. In 2013, the DGM continued to grow with the field by partnering with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health (JHSPH) and the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) to create the Maryland Genetics, Epidemiology, and Medicine Training Program (MD-GEM), funded by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund/MD-GEM takes a multidisciplinary approach by combining the expertise of all three institutions, to foster the development of a new generation of scientists.

Administrative Structure and Program Leadership 

Director: Andrew McCallion, Ph.D. Email: [email protected]

Co-Director:  Kimberly Doheny, Ph.D. Email: [email protected]

Administrator: Sandy Muscelli Email: [email protected]

The directors work closely with the Program Administrator, Ms. Sandy Muscelli, to deal with the day-to-day responsibilities of the program. Dr. McCallion served as Assistant Director for several years and provides valuable guidance to students throughout their training. Dr. Doheny is a 1993 graduate of the Human Genetics Program, providing guidance in the areas of large-scale genomics, technology development, clinical diagnostics and career development. Ms. Muscelli continues to serve as the Administrator for HGG, a position she has held since 1989. She organizes all aspects of the recruitment and admission processes, manages the budget, and handles the daily administrative duties. She should be the first person you contact if you have problems.

Additional input is provided by members of the Executive Committee: David Valle (chair), Professor of Genetic Medicine and former training program director from 1988-2021, Dan Arking, Professor of Genetic Medicine, Mary Armanios, Professor of Oncology, Hilary Vernon, Associate Professor of Genetic Medicine and Ambrose Wonkam, Professor and Director, Department of Genetic Medicine. All members of the Executive Committee are extensively involved in the selection and recruitment of our students and in counseling students with questions and/or problems.

Student Representatives

Student Representatives are elected from each class to speak on behalf of students throughout their graduate careers. Responsibilities include organizing events throughout the academic year including the Barton Childs Lecture and events, student activities related to recruiting, the practice talks for students prior to their comprehensive exams, and orientation for the incoming first years. Additionally, the senior student representative attends faculty meeting and convey pertinent information from these meetings to all HGG students. When necessary, they act as a conduit between the students and program administration.

• Class of 2019: Rachel Boyd
• Class of 2020: Kyler McKessy  and  Jacob Mitchell
• Class of 2021: Fujr Osman  and  Maddi Denton
• Class of 2022: Noah Workman
• Class of 2023: Hope Orjuela  and  Nick Saba

Ph.D. Program

Uw-madison ranked #9 in 2022 for phd programs in genetics/genomics/bioinformatics by u.s. news & world report..

• Current Ph.D. Students More
• Prospective Ph.D. Students More

Welcome to the UW-Madison Genetics Training Program. As director of the Training Program, I invite you to explore our web site to learn about the outstanding research, training opportunities, and professional development we provide our students. We in the program take very seriously our role in training the next generation of geneticists for a range careers in science. We are proud to be recognized as one of the leading genetics training programs in the country, having maintained among the longest-standing NIH training grants in genetics for over 45 years. We care about our students and aim to provide the best possible training to position them as outstanding independent scientists.

The Genetics Training Program is a campus-wide program administered by the UW-Madison Department of Genetics.  The Training Program includes over 75 faculty mentors whose labs collectively reside in 20 departments within 4 different colleges, providing students many options in faculty mentors and research topics while maintaining a scientific focus on genetics and genomics, broadly defined.  Students in the program are supported by up to two years of funding on our NIH T32 training grant and then on individual fellowships or faculty mentor research grants.

Researchers in the UW-Madison Genetics Training Program conduct a wide range of world-class research on a variety of topics, combining genetics perspective with cutting-edge technologies to answer novel questions and tackle new problems in genetics and biology.  This research is translating into significant benefits to society, impacting human health, agricultural practices, climate and bioenergy research and more.

Our goal is to train the next generation of geneticists for diverse careers that leverage world-class expertise in genetic and genomic research. Students have a wide range of options in terms of laboratories to join and coursework to conduct; at the same time, students from our program are recognized as leaders in genetics and genomics because of the core intellectual focus of our program. An unparalleled feature of UW-Madison is the extensive level of interdisciplinary and cross-departmental collaboration, providing our students unique training experiences in doing modern biological research. We also provide diverse opportunities for professional development. UW-Madison has outstanding resources that many of our students participate in, including opportunities in entrepreneurship, teaching innovations, patent law, policy, and more. Graduates of the Genetics Training Program go on to fulfilling careers that include directing their own research labs, leading clinical genomic sequencing centers, teaching and inspiring students at small and large colleges and universities, and contributing to the rapidly expanding areas of biotechnology, agriculture, and clinical and personalized medicine.

I welcome you to find out more about our program, our students, and our community on the pages that follow.

Nicole Perna, PhD

Director, UW-Madison Genetics Training Program

Program Leadership

Nicole Perna

Position title: Professor & Graduate Program Director

Email: ntperna @wisc.edu

Martha Reck

Position title: Graduate Program Manager

Email: mreck2 @wisc.edu

Position title: Professor & Graduate Program Director of Admissions

Email: jpool @wisc.edu

• Recommendations
• Notifications
• My Favorites

Favorites, recommendations, and notifications are only available for UCLA Graduate Students at this time.

Access features exclusively for UCLA students and staff.

As a student, you can:

• Add funding awards to your favorites list
• Get notified of upcoming deadlines and events
• Receive personalized recommendations for funding awards

 We're Sorry

You've signed in with a UCLA undergraduate student account.

UCLA Graduate Programs

Graduate Program: Human Genetics

UCLA's Graduate Program in Human Genetics offers the following degree(s):

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Masters available on Doctoral track

With questions not answered here or on the program’s site (above), please contact the program directly.

Human Genetics Graduate Program at UCLA Human Genetics Graduate Program at UCLA 6506 Gonda Center Box 957088 Los Angeles, CA 90095-7088

Visit the Human Genetics Department’s faculty roster

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Visit the registrar's site for the Human Genetics Department’s course descriptions

• Admission Requirements
• Program Statistics

(310) 206-0920

[email protected]

MAJOR CODE: HUMAN GENETICS

Genetics Graduate Programs

The Genetics and Molecular Biology (GMB) program at Emory University is a leading genetics PhD research program, providing the best training in a particular core area of genetics and molecular biology while at the same time providing broad-based training in the related disciplines of biochemistry, cell biology, genomics, statistics, and bioinformatics. The GMB program is highly interdisciplinary with its faculty coming from the ranks of 11 basic science and clinical departments. Our students will have opportunities to perform genetics and genomics research in six core areas, including Bioinformatics and Comparative Genomics, Cancer Genetics; Control of Genome Integrity; Developmental Genetics and Differentiation; Epigenetic Regulation and Gene Expression; and Human Genetics.

The Student Experience

To provide the basis for advanced research, introductory courses covering both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems are taken in the first year. First-year students obtain practical research training by participating in eight-week rotations in the investigators' laboratories of their choice. These rotations provide the basis for selecting dissertation topics and mentors. After completing the first year, students tailor their curriculum from a large list of specialized courses in genetics and molecular biology, as well as other areas of current biological sciences. All courses emphasize critical thinking, constructive literature evaluation, and presentation skills. Seminar courses occurring each semester focus on current topics in genetics and molecular biology and are presented by investigators within and outside of Emory. Students also present their findings in research-in-progress meetings, which are attended by their peers and the faculty. Student invited speakers, small group teaching experiences, and training in the ethical conduct of research round out the overall list of activities that occur as students conduct research and prepare their dissertation.

Research Opportunities

Research interests of the faculty vary in topic, approach and model organism. This interdepartmental graduate program derives its faculty from eight different departments including those from the departments of Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Human Genetics, Microbiology & Immunology, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Pharmacology, and the Winship Cancer Institute. More on Research Opportunities...

Training Opportunities

The graduate program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (GMB) at Emory University offers an exciting broad based training in the fields of genetics and molecular biology and their related disciplines of biochemistry, bioinformatics, cell biology, developmental biology and statistics. Research interests of the faculty vary in topic, approach and model organism. This interdepartmental graduate program derives its faculty from ten different departments including those from the departments of Human Genetics, Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Microbiology & Immunology, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Pharmacology, and the Winship Cancer Institute. A wide range of research opportunities in bacterial, viral, human and eukaryotic model system genetics enable students to specialize in their area of interest while obtaining an essential foundation in genetics. Areas of emphasis listed below are supported by state-of-the-art research facilities.

Research programs of the faculty fall into six major areas:

• Regulation of Gene Expression
• Development and Differentiation
• Cancer Genetics and Biology
• Human and Medical Genetics
• Bioinformatics and Comparative Genomics
• Genome Structure, Replication, Recombination And Repair

• Skip to Content
• Catalog Home
• Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics, PhD

The program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics provides a broad exposure in the various disciplines involved with plant improvement. The program is truly interdisciplinary with faculty participants from agronomy, biochemistry, botany, entomology, genetics, horticulture, plant pathology, and statistics. Research areas include biochemical and molecular genetics, bioinformatics, biometry, cytogenetics and cytology, genecology, genetics, plant breeding, and quantitative genetics.

The Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics Program has been designated a UW System Center of Excellence. The 50–60 students majoring in the program come from throughout the United States and all over the world. Faculty have included members of the National Academy of Sciences, endowed chair professors, and recipients of the National Council of Plant Breeders "Genetic and Plant Breeding Award." The University of Wisconsin leads the nation in the diversity of plant breeding programs and number of graduate students trained. Graduates are found in responsible positions with academic institutions, research institutions, and private companies involved in molecular to cultivar development work.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Satisfactory preparation for graduate study in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics includes undergraduate coursework in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, general chemistry and organic chemistry, physics, and a comprehensive biology sequence that covers both plant and animal biology and includes labs. Some of this preparatory coursework may be completed during the first year of graduate study. Normally, applicants will have had undergraduate training in the biological or agricultural sciences. All applicants must fulfill the minimum entrance requirements of the Graduate School.

Application Checklist

A complete application should include the following items:

• Graduate School Application: We only accept applications submitted online through the Graduate School.
• Supplementary Application: The supplementary application will appear as a part of the Graduate School’s electronic application once the applicant selects Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics.
• Application Fee: Instructions for paying the application fee are available through the Graduate School’s online application form.
• Statement of Purpose: Your essay should be a concise description of your reasons for choosing to study Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics at the University of Wisconsin. Please include your research interests and career goals as well as a description of your preparation for graduate study including relevant coursework, related employment, research experience, publications, presentations, awards, and honors.    
• Transcripts: We require all applicants to submit an unofficial transcript in PDF format to their online application. If an applicant is recommended for admission, then they will be required to submit their official transcript to the Graduate School.  International academic records must be submitted in the original language and accompanied by an official English translation. Documents must be issued by the institution with an official seal/stamp and an official signature.
•  Three Letters of Recommendation, with at least two from academic sources. 
• Proof of English Proficiency: Applicants, whose native language is not English, or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English, must follow the Graduate School’s requirements for proof of English proficiency.

Application Process

At this time, the graduate program in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics does not support lab rotations.  Applicants are admitted directly into a specific research program with one major professor. Admissions decisions are contingent upon the acceptance of an applicant by a faculty mentor.  Because we receive many more applications from qualified applicants than we are able to admit, we highly recommend that applicants directly contact any faculty members with whom they are interested in working.

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Program Resources

Financial support may be available through research assistantships (RAs) or fellowships. Fellowships are granted to students with very outstanding academic records. We recommend that your application be complete by the application deadlines in order to be considered for funding. Research assistantships are awarded by individual professors through funds available to their research programs.

Please be advised that you do not need to make a separate application for financial support as your admission application will also serve as an application for assistantships and fellowships. 

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

Major requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

Mode of Instruction

Mode of Instruction Definitions

Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.

Evening/Weekend: ​Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules.  Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.

Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.

Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats.  Contact the program for more specific information.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online.  Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

Curricular Requirements

Required Courses

The specific program of study toward a doctoral degree is developed by the student and their major professor. Considerable flexibility in the selection of courses is permitted to meet the needs and interests of the candidate. Of the required 51 credits, students must complete a minimum of 17 credits of coursework (not research credit) and at least 11 credits must come from the Core Curriculum, including at least 2 credits in each of Sections A, B, and C.   Students must also complete 3 credits of Plant Breeding seminar ( HORT/​AGRONOMY/​GENETICS  957 Seminar-Plant Breeding ). 

Core Curriculum

Graduate School Policies

The  Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures  provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.

Major-Specific Policies

Prior coursework, graduate credits earned at other institutions.

Refer to the Graduate School: Transfer Credits for Prior Coursework policy.

Undergraduate Credits Earned at Other Institutions or UW-Madison

Credits earned as a professional student at uw-madison (law, medicine, pharmacy, and veterinary careers), credits earned as a university special student at uw–madison.

Refer to the Graduate School: Probation policy.

Advisor / Committee

Refer to the Graduate School: Advisor  and Graduate School: Committees (Doctoral/Master’s/MFA)  policies.

Credits Per Term Allowed

Time limits.

Refer to the Graduate School: Time Limits policy.

Grievances and Appeals

These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:

• Bias or Hate Reporting  
• Graduate Assistantship Policies and Procedures
• Office of the Provost for Faculty and Staff Affairs
• Employee Assistance (for personal counseling and workplace consultation around communication and conflict involving graduate assistants and other employees, post-doctoral students, faculty and staff)
• Employee Disability Resource Office (for qualified employees or applicants with disabilities to have equal employment opportunities)
• Graduate School (for informal advice at any level of review and for official appeals of program/departmental or school/college grievance decisions)
• Office of Compliance (for class harassment and discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence)
• Office Student Assistance and Support (OSAS)  (for all students to seek grievance assistance and support)
• Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (for conflicts involving students)
• Ombuds Office for Faculty and Staff (for employed graduate students and post-docs, as well as faculty and staff)
• Title IX (for concerns about discrimination)

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences: Grievance Policy  

In the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), any student who feels unfairly treated by a member of the CALS faculty or staff has the right to complain about the treatment and to receive a prompt hearing. Some complaints may arise from misunderstandings or communication breakdowns and be easily resolved; others may require formal action. Complaints may concern any matter of perceived unfairness.

To ensure a prompt and fair hearing of any complaint, and to protect the rights of both the person complaining and the person at whom the complaint is directed, the following procedures are used in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Any student, undergraduate or graduate, may use these procedures, except employees whose complaints are covered under other campus policies.

• The student should first talk with the person at whom the complaint is directed. Most issues can be settled at this level. Others may be resolved by established departmental procedures.
• If the complaint involves an academic department in CALS the student should proceed in accordance with item 3 below.
• If the grievance involves a unit in CALS that is not an academic department, the student should proceed in accordance with item 4 below.
• If informal mediation fails, the student can submit the grievance in writing to the grievance advisor within 10 working days of the date the student is informed of the failure of the mediation attempt by the grievance advisor. The grievance advisor will provide a copy to the person at whom the grievance is directed.
• The grievance advisor will refer the complaint to a department committee that will obtain a written response from the person at whom the complaint is directed, providing a copy to the student. Either party may request a hearing before the committee. The grievance advisor will provide both parties a written decision within 20 working days from the date of receipt of the written complaint.
• If the grievance involves the department chairperson, the grievance advisor or a member of the grievance committee, these persons may not participate in the review.
• If not satisfied with departmental action, either party has 10 working days from the date of notification of the departmental committee action to file a written appeal to the CALS Equity and Diversity Committee. A subcommittee of this committee will make a preliminary judgement as to whether the case merits further investigation and review. If the subcommittee unanimously determines that the case does not merit further investigation and review, its decision is final. If one or more members of the subcommittee determine that the case does merit further investigation and review, the subcommittee will investigate and seek to resolve the dispute through mediation. If this mediation attempt fails, the subcommittee will bring the case to the full committee. The committee may seek additional information from the parties or hold a hearing. The committee will present a written recommendation to the dean who will provide a final decision within 20 working days of receipt of the committee recommendation.
• If the alleged unfair treatment occurs in a CALS unit that is not an academic department, the student should, within 120 calendar days of the alleged incident, take his/her grievance directly to the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. The dean will attempt to resolve the problem informally within 10 working days of receiving the complaint. If this mediation attempt does not succeed the student may file a written complaint with the dean who will refer it to the CALS Equity and Diversity Committee. The committee will seek a written response from the person at whom the complaint is directed, subsequently following other steps delineated in item 3d above.
• Professional Development

Take advantage of the Graduate School's  professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

Close working relationships between plant breeding and plant genetics (PBPG) students and faculty with companies, commodity groups, and NGOs allow for exposure to various work environments and potential employers. Opportunities exist for students to complete short-term internships with companies depending on research interests and progress toward graduate degrees. The Plant Science Graduate Student Council (PSGSC) fosters communication and social interactions among graduate students in the plant sciences.  

• Learning Outcomes
• Articulates research problems, potentials, and limits with respect to knowledge within the field of plant breeding and plant genetics.
• Formulates ideas, concepts, designs, and/or techniques beyond the current boundaries of knowledge within the field of plant breeding and plant genetics.
• Creates research that makes a substantive contribution to the field of plant breeding and plant genetics.
• Communicates complex ideas in a clear and understandable manner.
• Recognizes and applies principles of ethical and professional conduct.

Up-to-date faculty listings can be found on our website.

• Requirements

Contact Information

Agronomy College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics, PhD http://www.plantbreeding.wisc.edu

Natalia De Leon, Director of Graduate Studies [email protected] 608-262-0193 459 Moore Hall 1575 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706

Caitlin Collies, Graduate Coordinator [email protected] 369 Moore Hall 1575 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706

Graduate Program Handbook View Here

Graduate School grad.wisc.edu

• /​api/​
• /​pdf/​
• Explore Graduate Opportunities
• Explore UW-​Madison's Undergraduate Opportunities
• Accounting and Information Systems
• African American Studies
• African Cultural Studies
• Agricultural and Applied Economics
• Development, PhD
• Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics, Doctoral Minor
• Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics, MS
• Animal and Dairy Sciences
• Anthropology
• Art History
• Asian Languages and Cultures
• Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences
• Bacteriology
• Biochemistry
• Biological Systems Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Biostatistics and Medical Informatics
• Business -​ School-​Wide
• Cell and Regenerative Biology
• Chemical and Biological Engineering
• Chicana/​o and Latina/​o Studies
• Civil and Environmental Engineering
• Civil Society &​ Community Studies
• Classical and Ancient Near Eastern Studies
• Communication Arts
• Communication Sciences and Disorders
• Community and Environmental Sociology
• Computer Sciences
• Counseling Psychology
• Curriculum and Instruction
• Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis
• Educational Policy Studies
• Educational Psychology
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Engineering -​ College-​Wide
• Food Science
• Forest and Wildlife Ecology
• French and Italian
• Gaylord Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
• Gender and Women's Studies
• German, Nordic, and Slavic
• Graduate -​ School-​Wide
• Human Ecology -​ School-​Wide
• Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Information School
• Institute for Clinical and Translational Research
• Institute for Regional and International Studies
• Integrative Biology
• Journalism and Mass Communication
• Kinesiology
• La Follette School of Public Affairs
• Language Institute
• Language Sciences
• Law -​ School-​Wide
• Life Sciences Communication
• Management and Human Resources
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Mathematics
• Mead Witter School of Music
• Mechanical Engineering
• Medical Physics
• Medicine and Public Health -​ School-​Wide
• Nuclear Engineering and Engineering Physics
• Nursing -​ School-​Wide
• Nutritional Sciences
• Operations and Information Management
• Pharmacy -​ School-​Wide
• Planning and Landscape Architecture
• Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences
• Plant Pathology
• Political Science
• Population Health Sciences
• Real Estate and Urban Land Economics
• Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education
• Religious Studies
• Risk and Insurance
• Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work
• Soil and Environmental Sciences
• Soil Science
• Spanish and Portuguese
• Veterinary Medicine -​ School-​Wide
• Nondegree/​Visiting Student Guide
• Pharmacy Guide
• School of Medicine and Public Health Guide
• Undergraduate Guide
• Veterinary Guide

Doctoral Programs

Department doctoral programs.

The School of Biological Sciences offers graduate training in a collaborative environment with several schools and graduate programs. This provides excellent research training and professional development for graduate students pursuing the doctorate. Training opportunities include broad areas of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences including Neuroscience, Immunology and Pathogenesis, Cancer Biology, Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Systems and Computational Biology, Genomics, Structural Biology, Ecology, and Evolutionary Biology.

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, PhD

Research in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology uses a range of methodologies spanning field studies, experimental approaches, and computational approaches. Students and faculty have easy access to field sites that include marine, desert, and California chaparral communities. The faculty have diverse interests including evolutionary biology, population genetics, genomics, behavioral ecology, physiology, and global change biology. Faculty in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology have extensive collaborations with scientists in neuroscience, molecular biology, genomics and microbiomes, global climate biology, systems biology, mathematics, as well as with faculty at other institutions.

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers admission directly to a departmental graduate program with full financial support. Students initiate research with a faculty thesis advisor while they take required coursework and complete other degree requirements. 

Learning Outcomes by Department

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is the only department that offers direct admission to a PhD Program. The other Dunlop Dunlop School departments offer admission to their PhD programs through a gateway disciplinary program such as CMB or INP. Click below to learn more about learning outcomes by department.

Neurobiology and Behavior, PhD

Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences   PLOs

Neurobiology and Behavior M.S./Ph.D.

PLO1: Core Knowledge

• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of central concepts in the biological sciences
• Understand the current concepts in molecular biology, biochemistry, and biomedical sciences
• Demonstrate specialized knowledge of cellular and molecular biology sufficient to carry out substantive independent research

PLO2: Research Methods and Analysis

• Read and critically evaluate the scientific literature
• Formulate hypotheses based on current concepts in the field
• Design, conduct, and interpret their independent research projects
• Understand the range of tools appropriate for research in their sub-field
• Understand and follow research ethics

PLO3: Pedagogy:

• Communicate effectively to large and small groups in pedagogical settings including teaching, research seminars, and other formats
• Identify and effectively deploy suitable technologies for use in all aspects of instruction

PLO4: Scholarly Communication:

• Review and discuss relevant literature and their significance
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed publications and in a dissertation
• Communicate research results effectively through oral presentations at scientific seminars, conferences, and other venues
• Make clear and cogent oral presentations, including effective use of technology

PLO5: Professionalism

• Write compelling abstracts describing their research for consideration at research conferences
• Prepare oral presentations suitable for presentation at a research conference
• Make effective contributions to research teams and learning seminars
• Make effective contributions to department, university, community, and professional service
• Mentor junior researchers (e.g., undergraduates, beginning graduate students)

PLO6: Independent Research

• Develop their own research projects that meet high standards of theoretical and methodological rigor with lasting impact
• Produce scholarship that is comparable in scope and format to articles that appear in leading peer-reviewed journals in molecular and biomedical sciences
• Supervise junior researchers (e.g., high school students, undergraduates, beginning graduate students) effectively

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, PhD

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry M.S./Ph.D.

• Master current concepts in molecular biology, biochemistry, and biomedical sciences
• Acquire specialized knowledge of cellular and molecular biology sufficient to carry out substantive independent research

PLO2: Research Methods and Analysis 

• Design, conduct, and interpret experiments to complete an original research project
• Understand the range of tools appropriate for research in the specific sub-field
• Appreciate and adhere to research ethics

PLO3: Pedagogy: 

• Communicate effectively to small and large groups in pedagogical settings such as teaching and research seminars

PLO4: Scholarly Communication: 

• Review and discuss relevant literature and its significance
• Complete an individual development plan (IDP) at the time of entering the MBB program (Fall quarter of the 2 nd year) and update it annually
• Submit fellowship proposals to private and governmental agencies to solicit independent funding for graduate research
• Anticipate and meet the needs for professional transitions in a timely fashion (prior to degree completion)
• Write compelling abstracts describing research for consideration at research conferences

PLO6: Independent Research 

• Effectively supervise junior researchers (e.g., high school students, undergraduates, beginning graduate students)

Interdepartmental Doctoral Gateway Programs

Gateway programs offer admission to the doctoral programs affiliated with the Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, School of Physical Sciences, Engineering and Information & Computer Science. Students enroll for the first academic year while they do lab rotations and take required coursework. Then, students select a thesis advisor and transfer to a department and complete remaining degree requirements. Gateway programs offer students excellent opportunities to perform laboratory rotations with any of a large number of faculty participants in that program, and in many areas of biological sciences.

Cellular Molecular Dunlop Schoolences

The PhD program in Cellular & Molecular Biosciences (CMB) at UC Irvine provides ideal training to launch the careers of talented researchers in diverse fields of biological and biomedical sciences. With five different study focuses, the CMB PhD program gears future scientists to be ready for a diverse field.  The program offers a rigorous but flexible curriculum with an extensive choice of laboratories and allows students to tailor their training to individual interests and goals. Outstanding facilities, a collaborative culture, a commitment to diversity, and guaranteed on-campus housing all contribute to a productive graduate experience. 

Interdepartamental Neuroscience Program

The Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program (INP) provides a vehicle for meeting the diversity and challenges of graduate training in such a broad discipline. Neuroscience is an inherently broad and multidisciplinary area of scientific pursuit and scholarship. It has intellectual links to fields as diverse as developmental and cell biology, molecular biology, physiology, pharmacology, anatomy, psychology, computer science, and physics. The substantial breadth of Neuroscience is one of its strengths as a discipline, and one of the features that makes it an attractive and important area for graduate study. Students may train with any participating faculty member and are exposed to a variety of approaches before deciding on a research area for focused dissertation work. After the initial year of academic coursework and laboratory rotations, students join the more specialized graduate program of their chosen thesis advisor.

Mathematical, Computational, and System Biology

The goal of UCI’s program in Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology (MCSB) is to provide students from a variety of academic backgrounds with doctoral training suitable for research careers in the nascent field of Systems Biology. The program emphasizes in-depth classroom study, interdisciplinary research rotations, and individualized advising. The MCSB Program is supported by funding from UCI’s Graduate Division, by a National Institute of General Medical Sciences grant to the UCI Center for Complex Biological Systems, and an NIH Training Grant.

Plant Science, Ph.D.

Harness the power of plants..

From crop-based biofuels to pest-resistant plants, discoveries of plant scientists make a profound impact on the world’s food production, natural resources and the environment.

This program prepares you to make your own contribution to this exciting field through the in-depth study of the production, protection, breeding and genetics of plants. Gain a sophisticated understanding of the interdisciplinary field, with specialized skills in areas like biotechnology, weed science, crop management, plant pathology and more.

Much of your experience will take place in the on-campus plant science farms, climate-controlled greenhouses and laboratories, where you will conduct independent research alongside leading faculty experts in the field.

This program could be a good fit if you:

• Hold an undergraduate degree in agriculture, biology, botany, horticulture, agriculture, environmental science, natural resources or other related field
• Have a strong interested in advancing the field of plant science
• Want to lead research in the lab and out in the field
• Can think critically and creatively about complex problems

Career Outcomes

With this degree, you could become a/an:

• Agricultural consultant (domestic or international)
• Agricultural chemical researcher or sales manager
• Commercial crop or greenhouse manager
• Food processing scientist
• Plant biotechnologist
• Plant breeder
• Plant industry or biofuels researcher
• Plant-pest protection specialist
• Senior scientist or program leader for a federal or state agriculture, environmental quality or land management agency
• University professor, research support scientist or extension educator
• Urban landscape consultant or manager

Available On-Campus

You may also be interested in:

Child Development, M.S.

Gain advanced knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact in the lives of children and families.

Family and Consumer Sciences, M.S.

Learn scientific research methods to understand and solve problems of human development, family relations, personal and family finance, nutrition and community.

More degrees below. Enjoy!

Water resources.

Learn to work across disciplines to help communities solve today’s increasingly complex problems in water resources management.

Turn your passion for health and wellness into a career as a registered dietitian nutritionist.

Nutritional Sciences

Explore cutting-edge nutrition research to help improve human health.

Child Development

Soil & land resources.

Develop valuable expertise in the sustainable use and management of soils.

Applied Economics

Apply advanced statistical and mathematical analysis to solve complex issues involving agriculture, communities, natural resources and other applied topics.

Food Science

Learn to research and develop new food products, improve the safety and quality of food products, and design safer and more efficient food processes.

Develop the skills to solve complex pest-control problems, tackle pressing pollination issues, and battle insect-borne diseases.

Agricultural Education

Master the skills and techniques of teaching youth and adults about agriculture, leadership and life.

Animal Physiology

Lead original research in areas such as animal growth, nutrition or reproduction.

Family and Consumer Sciences

Plant pathology.

Explore interactions between plants and microbes. Learn to develop innovative solutions that keep plants safe from diseases.

By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies and similar tracking technologies described in our privacy policy .

Voice of the Discipline

News and publications.

Access AHA news and publications supporting the work of historians.

Stay up-to-date with the AHA

June 21, 2024

AHA Signs On to CIE Letter Urging HEA-Title VI Funding for FY 2025

The AHA has signed on to a letter from the Coalition for International Education (CIE) to leaders in the US…

June 18, 2024

Welcome to the AHA’s New Website

May 30, 2024

AHA Signs on to ACLS Statement on 2024 Campus Protests

May 23, 2024

AHA Partners with Wiki Education for New Member Benefit

The American Historical Review is the flagship journal of the AHA and the journal of record for the historical discipline in the United States, bringing together scholarship from every major field of historical study.

Perspectives on History is the newsmagazine of the AHA and is the principal source for news and information about the discipline of history. Since 1962, Perspectives has promoted our work by publishing articles and commentary on all aspects of the historical discipline.

History in Focus Podcast

Environmental Crisis and Recovery

Collaborative history + revisiting marion thompson wright, teaching historiography + chilling affects, aha booklets.

The AHA publishes booklets that address a diversity of topics to serve the needs of history students and historians in all professions. Our publications include career advice for history graduates, overviews and syntheses of current historical topics and fields, and guides to teaching and learning in history.

For the Press

The AHA is pleased to provide resources for journalists and press. If you are a member of the media and would like to submit a request for a referral or interview, please email [email protected] . Please provide any pertinent deadlines and we will do our best to accommodate your request. The AHA can find you a historian for any topic, and assists with dozens of inquiries each year.

The AHA encourages the reading of history with periodic reading challenges.

Permission to Use AHA Copyrighted Material

All material published by the American Historical Association in any medium is protected by copyright.

Join the AHA

The AHA brings together historians from all specializations and all work contexts, embracing the breadth and variety of activity in history today.